Every year, the construction industry ranks as one of the most dangerous in which to work. Construction workers stand on top of buildings and go underground; they operate heavy machinery and handheld power tools; they work with electricity and they work with water; they work on inclines, slants and slopes; they dig holes and fill them in; and construction workers perform many other dangerous tasks on a day-to-day basis.

The Hazards of Falling

The federal government's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) states that "falls are the leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry." The most fall-related injuries are caused by the following hazards:

Unprotected floor holessides and wall openings

Improper construction of scaffolding

Unguarded, protruding steel reinforced bars

The misuse of ladders

These hazards can result in a wide variety of injuries when a worker falls, and include sprains, concussions, broken arms and legs, serious internal injuries, and back injuries, among others.

The Danger of Electricity

OSHA also states that construction workers are too often killed as a result of electrocution. The agency lists the following common hazards involving electrical work:

Improper use of extension cords and flexible cords

Contact with power lines

Lack of ground-fault protections

Missing or broken ground paths Improperly used equipment

Injuries due to accidents with electricity can include severe burns, respiratory paralysis, heart attacks, traumatic brain injuries and neurological injuries, among others.

Heavy Machinery: Handle with Care

OSHA says nearly three-quarters of all construction struck-by fatalities involve heavy machinery such as cranes and trucks. The improper operation of the equipment or the failure to be observant or defensive when driving heavy equipment can cause serious or catastrophic injury, from sprains and head injuries to death.

Stay Safe

Before starting any task on a construction site or construction-related task, think about what you're going to do and look for hazards and obstacles. Always wear and use safety gear; if none is provided, ask for it. If you notice a hazard, alert your supervisor. Only operate equipment you have been trained to use properly.

The Voss Law Firm, P.C. represents clients on a local, national and international basis. We proudly serve companies and individuals along the Gulf Coast and around the globe on a contingency fee basis. Our law firm collects nothing unless we recover on our client's behalf.

Please contact us today for a FREE, no obligation, confidential consultation with a qualified policyholder attorney.